In December 2010 I purchased a 2007 Dodge Gand Caravan Special Edition. For the most part, I love the van. However, it has a major flaw. When it rains, I lose power steering. At first, I only noticed it when I turned a corner. Now, I'm noticing it when I drive through a puddle going straight.
If you have had a similar problem, please post your comment here. At the moment I'm working with the Chrysler Corporation to correct this problem and so far they have been very cooperative. However, no one can figure out what the problem is.
By posting your problem here, hopefully we can not only get my van fixed, but all vans that are having this mechanical problem.
I also have a 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan, purchased in 2008. A couple of months ago I started experiencing similar issues. In my case, it has only happened while driving in the rain and trying to take a turn (right or left). The steering column seems to lock, so that I cannot turn the wheel at all.
ReplyDeleteThankfully, each time I have been able to put the vehicle in reverse and get out of the intersection. Once I did that, the problem corrected itself, and I was able to make the turn.
This is quite dangerous and frightening, especially with my children sitting in the back. Any help will be appreciated. My mechanic is stumped. Thanks
Thank you for your response. To date, Chrysler is refusing to correct the problem. I will be talking to the Chrysler representative this afternoon. I will update this blog after our conversation.
DeleteI have set up an email specifically for this. If you feel comfortable giving contact information - even if it's an email - please do so at:
drivedodgecaravaninrain@gmail.com
Any information provided will be solely for the purpose of getting our vans running safely. Thanks for your comment.
I have a 2002 and it does the same thing. I wish I new what it was. My friend says in my be the wheel baring locking up.
DeleteAfter a rain, I get into the car and start it......and the dash lights dim considerably when I turn on the headlights......I know to let it run a little while or the steering will have trouble. My first guess is that water causes a short that puts a tremendous load on the alternator. If the belt can't turn the alternator and it is slipping, then the power steering pump isn't turning either. The sliding door circuits have already shorted out and caused this same issue before.....it's that damn door wiring.
DeleteI have an 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan,91,000 miles. My power steering fails for several minutes in the morning after it has been parked all night when there has been rain or ice or snow. The belt usually squeals then power steering is restored. My battery light also went on recently with this episode. Replaced battery and planning to replace belt. INDIANA
ReplyDeleteI have had the same issue. When going through a puddle of nearly any size, my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan"s power steering locks up, followed by a squeal, and often times the battery light comes on as well. I am seeing many people with this problem. It seems there is some hose leaking on to the power steering belt, not sure but am looking at it today after reading some descriptive posts.
ReplyDeleteSame issue....2006 dodge grand caravan. Complete loss of steering in the rain, after the rain and after hitting puddles. The battery light comes on followed by squealing. It takes a min or two to regain control of my van, helps to take it out of gear. Taken to mechanics as well as dodge dealership and they said everything looked fine. Today was a close call....after stopping at a stop sign, I turned right and lost steering about half way into the road. I put the van in reverse just as another car was headed right for me. Will never buy dodge again.
ReplyDeleteI have the same issue but no light and no noise. I wiggle the steering a little bit then it stop doing that.
DeleteMy 2006 dodge grand caravan will also stall if I go through any water on the road. The power stearing will lock up and the battery light goes on.
ReplyDeleteI apologize for not looking at this web page before now. It saddens my heart so see that there are so many people out there with the same problem.
DeleteI took my van into the shop over and over again. On 2 occasions, when there were puddles around, mechanics drove the van. One determined the belt stops moving when the water hits it. He contacted Chrysler. They told him to change the belt to a different size. He did but the problem wasn't fixed.
The bottom line? Chrysler couldn't care less. If you have an accident, it's your problem not theirs. Dealerships don't care either. They put on new parts, take your money and don't fix the problem. I even had a mechanic tell me he owned a Dodge Caravan several years ago and had the same problem. He couldn't fix it, so he sold it.
There are recalls for everything under the sun, but Chrysler doesn't deem this problem a hazard. Unfortunately, I became so paranoid that I eventually sold the van and bought something else. I hate passing my problem on to some one else, but I didn't know what else to do. Hopefully, if people keep coming to this site and voicing their concerns, Chrysler will have to accept accountability and get this problem fixed.
Just to let you know, I didn't have this problem with my van until I replaced the electrical brain in the van.
DeleteSAME thing!! Every time it rains my power steering goes out and the belt squeals and battery light comes on. I have a 2005 Caravan. I think Dodge needs to correct this problem!!
ReplyDeleteI do have a Dodge Grand Caravan 2006 and it has exactly the same problem your van has. I thought it was a problem of my car but it seems to be a production problem.
DeleteI would recommend that anyone having this problem contact Chrysler by phone. They will assign someone to your "case." If more and more people come forward with this problem, hopefully they will have to address the fact there is a problem on their end, not on the end of the owners. Just go to Chrysler's website and go to the Contact Us section. There's a phone number there. Everyone CALL. Someone is going to get hurt or killed because of this problem - if it hasn't already happened. Remember to keep a record of what happens. I put my phone on record, set it on the seat beside me so any noise the vehicle made was recorded and I could also record what was happening as I steered the van. Best wishes! Let's get this taken care of.
ReplyDeleteThis has been a long running problem with Chrysler mini vans. I have a '99 Grand Caravan ES that randomly becomes undrivable. Random because I can drive for miles and this happens suddenly while in motion. Sometimes I get a battery light and sometimes there's no light. I've spent hundres replacing belts, hoses, altanators, starters, batteries, relays, wires, etc. Took it to 3 different places, CarX, Monro and a Dodge dealership. To this day, it's still a mystery. This is a disign flaw that requires engineering to solve. There is no fix for it. You can replace every part and wire and the problem will still exist. The only real solutions is to invest in either a Honda Odyessy or a Toyota Sienna. Crystler refuses to admit the flaw publicly and will do nothing, take your hard earned money elsewhere.
ReplyDeleteThis has been a long running problem with Chrysler mini vans. I have a '99 Grand Caravan ES that randomly becomes undrivable. Random because I can drive for miles and this happens suddenly while in motion. Sometimes I get a battery light and sometimes there's no light. I've spent hundres replacing belts, hoses, altanators, starters, batteries, relays, wires, etc. Took it to 3 different places, CarX, Monro and a Dodge dealership. To this day, it's still a mystery. This is a disign flaw that requires engineering to solve. There is no fix for it. You can replace every part and wire and the problem will still exist. The only real solutions is to invest in either a Honda Odyessy or a Toyota Sienna. Crystler refuses to admit the flaw publicly and will do nothing, take your hard earned money elsewhere.
ReplyDeleteGates 38379K Enhancement Component Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NBKI7Q/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_ZXC8wbS1QBP1Z
DeleteThis happened to me just about 2 hours ago. I have a 1997 Grand Caravan SE. I was returning to work from lunch. It has been raining all day. Not a heavy rain, just slow and steady. I was turning a corner at a stop light and felt the change in the steering wheel. As I approached the next turn, the steering did not function and I had to muscle the wheel in order to get through the turn. Within seconds of that turn, the battery light came on and then in short order the temperature gauge spiked and the overheat alarm started going off. I managed to get the van parked. After letting it sit for an hour I went out to check the fluid, and it was fine. I started it back up. The battery light did not come on and the temperature was normal, but the power steering is still not functioning. At this point, I am very concerned if I will be able to get it home.
ReplyDeleteI have this problem with my 2008 Grand Caravsn too. It happened again tonight in the rain and I almost got in an accident. I will call Chrysler tomorrow. Dealer cannot fix. We are ready for a new van and unfortunately it won't be a Chrysler! Very dangerous. Afraid to drive it with my four kids.
ReplyDeleteGates 38379K Enhancement Component Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NBKI7Q/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_ZXC8wbS1QBP1Z
DeleteI have the same problem, for the record, today is Jan 27, 2006. I live in Orlando FL and it is raining all over central Florida today. I went to take my son to the School bus stop this morning when it happened. My steering froze and it became almost impossible to turn the wheel. Fortunately, I was able to stop the car in time to avoid a head on collision. Again, for the record, I have had my fair share of problems with vehicle. I have nothing good to say about Chrysler Motor vehicles. The only piece of advice that I can give to everyone here is simple. DO NOT BUY THEIR JUNK! That's it, I have had it. I am going to buy a Honda or Toyota and the American motor companies can kiss my @$$!
ReplyDeleteI have the same problem, for the record, today is Jan 27, 2006. I live in Orlando FL and it is raining all over central Florida today. I went to take my son to the School bus stop this morning when it happened. My steering froze and it became almost impossible to turn the wheel. Fortunately, I was able to stop the car in time to avoid a head on collision. Again, for the record, I have had my fair share of problems with vehicle. I have nothing good to say about Chrysler Motor vehicles. The only piece of advice that I can give to everyone here is simple. DO NOT BUY THEIR JUNK! That's it, I have had it. I am going to buy a Honda or Toyota and the American motor companies can kiss my @$$!
ReplyDeleteMine did this on a highway when it started pouring rain. I was going 65mph(that’s the speed limit on this highway), so everyone started slowing down to 50 as did I, when all of a sudden the steering wasn’t working. The vehicle was going straight and a curve was coming up, so I slowed way, way down and I was able to steer it. The vehicle was acting like it was on ice and just sliding is a better way to describe it. So embarrassing but thank God I didn’t have an accident. Went slow all the way home. Now I don’t know what to do to get to work if it rains. I can’t go 35mph on this major highway. I can’t call out, I’ll loose my job. What the hell am I supposed to do? I am so stressed and praying it doesn’t rain EVER again. I have had this 2005 Town & Country for about 4 or 5 years now and this is the first time this has ever happened. Help please!
DeleteI have a Toyota sienna 2015 and the belt slipped. Only a/c cycles off. Sterring is electric not hydraulic. But no splash guard under belt. Did you see my comment about the double sided belt from gates/Goodyear.
ReplyDeletewow - this thread is all I needed to see. I have a 2002 Caravan Sport with zero problems, we LOVE this van... save that we can't drive it in the rain, or cold, or over a puddle. The steering seizes, it squeals like a stuck pig. Three times I've had it checked, replaced every hose and got a new battery. Still does it and mechanics are stumped. It's pouring rain today and I thought I could just make a quick trip to the store - nope; the check engine light popped on and the car died. It took a jump from another car to get us safely home (my 2 year old daughter and a van full of groceries). Selling this van. Period. I need reliable.
ReplyDeleteThen make it safe. I bought this. And have parts for my 97 I donated. Gatess/ Goodyear same thing. Use Amazon to make sure it fits your model.
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The belt is a little tight but being double sideded it did not pop off. It can slip in heavy rain but all belts do. Won't pop off. Change pulley, new tensioner any way. You lose 120 plus labor. You gain confidence. Change your battery. Mine shorted. Be safe.
2007 dodge grand caravan having the same issues very dangerous
ReplyDelete2008 Dodge Grand Caravan. I am having the SAME issue!! I can't believe this is so common and there is no answer. I am definitely getting rid of my van as soon as possible. This is ABSURD!!! My 1998 Caravan that had no bells and whistles--even had crank windows-never had these issues. This van has been a headache from day 1!
ReplyDeleteAny updated information on this issue? My 2007 caravan does the same thing.
ReplyDeleteI have a 2007 Dodge Caravan. It has been driving very well. Last night and today we have had some very heavy rain. Went out on an errand, instrument panel lights go on, radio works, fan works ... but when I turn the ignition key to start, nothing from the engine. Nothing. I am guessing moisture and needs to dry out. Am I right in thinking?
ReplyDeleteIgnition or starter problem, as well as electrical. No power no crank.
ReplyDeletePossibly your key switch our a relay. Go to a mechanic with ase certification. For electrical. I now have a Toyota. No power steering. But but belt slips with excess water. No say guard. But works ok.
Same issue ..lost my steering twice today in the rain...almost hit a tree. I lose steering, it squeals, and the battery light goes on. Very dangerous situation.
ReplyDeleteFolks, there is a plastic cover that should attach at the bottom of the engine and enclose the harmonic balancer. Those seem to 'fall off' these vans. When yours is missing rain and snow soak the balancer and the serpentine belt. This causes the belt to slip, heat up the balancer and cause it to warp. It will also cause the power steering to fail and the alternator light to come on until the belt drys. Get a cover and all your troubles will dry up!
ReplyDeletecan you possiably send me info on the fix or what exactly you mean with more detials as to where i should look for this cover to see if it is in fact the problem and where or what i should ask for to fix it at the parts store ... thank you scott zeffner@yahoo.com
DeleteWe just had this happen. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share and post. So happy someone posted 11days ago. We will be looking into a cover
ReplyDeleteDid you get the cover? Did it work!
DeleteI just found this site.. too have same issues!! Have 2001 Dodge Grand caravan sports, had this issue since bought it in 2003, went on vacation in Florida with my kid's and was in heavy storms my power steering went out my car shut off.. continue when heavy moisture or very rainy, cold weather too. Have replaces everything from belts,pulley and tensioners..replaced almost everything except the engine...they nice to haul kids but this van gave me nothing but headaches n lots of money's. First year my transmission that was a 3,000 job... Would stay clear from mini vans!! Dodge n Chrysler has had tranny issue long back in 90s.. should of took heard with all bad reviews thought since car fax was the 2 owner, had great deal.. as long as keep matience up don't be fooled.. I called Dodge they won't do nothing even when my van was shy past the warranty.. they don't stand by there vehicles, I know they change warranty some where after 2010 .but u pay price for this.. if mine wasn't paid off, was still able to work, I sell it never buy from Dodge or Chrysler again...they need recall until someone dies from it they won't do a thing...
ReplyDeleteYes looks like a lot of people have problem with these mini van, i have a smiler problem but a little different, is strange,but when is wet, raining or was raining and roads all wet, my 2006 dodge caravan goes off, and acts kind of funny in the way of loosing of power, the dash lights (specially gear lights) shows funny, sometime goes off, but starts again,but feeling could go off any minute.When i wait and until is dry, she works good.
ReplyDeleteI also have a 2007 grand caravan that locks up Everytime I go through a puddle. Doesn't have to be a big one either. Very scary. Please let me know what the company is saying.
ReplyDeleteThis is something I found and it helped with my 2006 Grand Caravan. Good luck to all
ReplyDeleteVirgil wrote:
I think I might have the answer, ther is a drain right above the power steering pully. When it rains the connection on the drain leaks right on to the power steering pump. Please tell your mechanic or open the hood and pour water onto the windshield, see if the water leaks as it did in my car. Good Luck, I hope no one get's killed before Dodge has some type of recall.
I LOVE MY GRANDCHILDREN Mr. or Mrs. President of the Chrysler Corporation if you have children or grandchildren I'm sure you would want this problem fixed I bought and use my van to take them where they have to go I TRUSTED YOUR COMPANY
ReplyDeleteI had a 2006 dodge grand caravan that did the same thing when it rained. Battery light comes on steering does not work. It was to the point where if it was raining i would not drive it. I searched on line and they said a cover for the serpentine belt would fix the problem. Bought a cover that would prevent belt from slipping which was supposed to be the issue and cover didnt fit. I loved my car but i got so nervous driving it that i ended up selling it. Hope someone an figure out a fix since its not just me having the issue
ReplyDeleteSame problem. 2012 Town and Country. Powernsteering quits when you drive through any kind of standing water at over 10 mph. Could've dangerous. I suspect a splash shield broken or missing.
ReplyDeleteWe have a 2007 Dodge grand caravan and for the past couple years we have been having the same issue . when we drive through water even just a small puddle the I hear a squealing sound, engine dies and steering wheel locks up. Very scary. We did take it in for repair one time and they told me something was hanging and I asked if this guard served a purpose and the guy told me NO. So they removed it and so this has been happening ever since. I took it back several times they put it on lift and showed me where all was covered so Im not sure what's happened or going on. Very disappointed in Dodge not helping us fix this issue.
ReplyDelete2917 Dodge Grand Caravan....same issue. Power steering pump stops after driving through a puddle. Replaced serpentine belt and idler pulley...no change. Plastic shield between passenger-side front wheel and lower belt pulley is intact. Phone call to Chrysler Customer Service was a waste of time. Should have bought a Toyota or Honda.
ReplyDelete